Red Mange

Issue DescriptionSkin condition caused by the mite species
Demodex canix. Almost all dogs naturally carry this mite, since it is
transmitted from the mother to the nursing pups during the first few
days after the pups are born. Normally mites do not present any
problems; however, in some situations when a dog's natural defence
system becomes impaired, the mite population can explode and cause
serious skin irritation, hair loss, and other secondary infections.
Sometimes demodectic mange is a result of other underlying conditions
that have weakened the dog's immune system, such as immune diseases,
cancer, or intense external stress such as starvation. The mites
responsible for demodectic mange are only transmitted from mother to
pups; therefore, demodectic mange is not contagious among dogs, and
cannot affect humans. Some breeds are more susceptible to mild
demodectic mange at a young age, leading to the speculation of a
hereditary component in this disease.Other NamesDemodectic Mange, Demodicosis

Symptoms and DiagnosisLocalized demodectic mange usually presents
red, scaly lesions that are most frequently found on the dog's face
and forelegs. These small bold spots generally disappear by
themselves. In more serious cases, often accompanied by swollen lymph
nodes, the localized lesions will enlarge and develop into generalized
demodectic mange where there are large patches of bald, scaly skin and
skin infections. In juveniles under one year of age, this condition
may again disappear spontaneously without much intervention. However,
in older dogs generalized demodectic mange is usually a sign of
serious underlying health issues.

Skin scrapings are
usually performed, and observed under a microscope to positively
identify the mites.

TreatmentMost mild cases will improve by themselves over
time, especially in puppies; however, treatment is still recommended
to facilitate a speedy recovery. Small, localized lesions can be
controlled with ointments or medicated shampoos, and will generally
improve within weeks. In more seriously affected dogs, especially if
secondary infections are present, oral medications and antibiotics are
needed in addition to the topical treatments. Both the medicated
shampoo/bath treatment and oral medication have some limitations: the
medicated bath cannot be used in toy breeds or very young puppies, and
the oral anti-parasite medication cannot be used in most herding
breeds.

Some home remedies involve bathing the infected
dog in various household substances such as motor oil; this is harmful
to the dog and is NOT a viable treatment of demodectic mange.

It is possible for demodectic mange to relapse, although most
frequently this is a result of incomplete treatment. With most healthy
and young dogs, demodectic mange is easily controlled and treated. The
older the dog, the more difficult to completely cure demodectic mange,
and sometimes it is necessary to find and remove the underlying health
problems. Spaying or neutering is sometimes recommended since
reproductive functions like breeding and heat cycles are additional
physiological stresses that can trigger a relapse.